Eric Garcia speaks out after Barcelona beat Real Betis to qualify for Champions League

Barcelona sealed a berth in the UEFA Champions League for next season after they secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Real Betis away at the Benito Villamarin.

Having somewhat slipped off their path in recent weeks, it was important for the Blaugrana to bag all three points on Saturday and ensure a top-four finish in La Liga.

But it was easier said than done as Real Betis held on for more than 70 minutes before substitute Ansu Fati broke the deadlock. Even then, the hosts struck back in no time to reinstate parity.

But Jordi Alba’s stunner in stoppage time bagged a much-needed win for Barça, clinching qualification for the Champions League in the process.

Speaking after the game, Barcelona defender Eric Garcia expressed his delight at the result, saying: “It was a tough match. We showed our mentality. We want the best for the club. Our goal was to qualify for the Champions League, and we have done it.”

The defender, who joined the club last summer, was also full of praise for Ansu Fati after his goal paved the way for the Blaugrana to win on Sunday.

“Ansu Fati has magic, and he’s very important for us. He’s been unlucky with injuries, but today he showed what he is in 15-20 minutes,” the Spaniard said.

Eric Garcia also spoke about his defensive partnership with Ronald Araujo, insisting that it was up to the pair to show that they can get the job done in the absence of club legend Gerard Pique.

“Ronald (Araujo) and I have to show that we are capable of replacing Piqué, who has been the best centre-back in the last decade,” the former Manchester City starlet added.

Eric Garcia has had an inconsistent campaign since arriving at Camp Nou last summer. But, the defender will now be aiming to end the season on a high with three more games left for Barcelona to play.

Source: BarçaTV+